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Successful 2023 Canadian Cruise Season Sails into the SunsetSuccessful 2023 Canadian Cruise Season Sails into the Sunset
VANCOUVER, CANADA – With strong customer demand and support from community partners, the cruise industry is wrapping up a record year in Canada.“As we bid farewell to this extraordinary summer cruise season, we extend our appreciation to the passengers, suppliers, community partners and government agencies that made it possible,” said Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). “With consumer intent to cruise now at an all-time high, we anticipate an equally robust 2024, bringing significant economic benefit to the Canadian economy.”The number of cruise ship calls and passengers visiting Canadian ports in 2023 surpassed pre-pandemic levels, providing a solid boost to jobs and economic impact across the country. According to the most recently available study from 2019, the cruise industry supported 30,000 jobs in Canada and $4.3 billion in GDP. With record-setting passenger levels, 2023 results could be even greater. This local return is enhanced with new measures to help further protect the environment.“Since the return of cruise in Canada, the industry has implemented additional environmental measures developed in collaboration with Transport Canada and has been actively participating in planning for new shore power facilities. In fact, between now and 2028, virtually all new cruise ships will be equipped to plug in to shore-side electricity where available, reducing emissions in port by up to 98%,” noted Ms. Craighead.The cruise industry is committed to pursuing net zero carbon cruising by 2050. To demonstrate progress towards realizing our vision, CLIA tracks the uptake of sustainable renewable fuels and energy sources by member cruise lines and publishes the data showing the deployment of environmental technologies and practices on board cruise ships. The latest information on Charting the Future of Sustainable Cruise Travel can be viewed here. 25 October, 2023 -
Cruise tourism generates record A$5.63 billion for Australian economyCruise tourism generates record A$5.63 billion for Australian economy
October 19, 2023 – Australia’s cruise industry has generated a record A$5.63 billion for the national economy in its first year of revival, bringing new levels of employment and visitor spending to destinations around the country.An economic impact assessment jointly commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) shows cruising has rebounded rapidly since local operations resumed in mid-2022, bringing significant economic impact to every state and coastal territory.The assessment shows A$5.63 billion in total economic output generated by cruise tourism in Australia during the 2022-23 financial year, a 22.1% increase over 2018-19*. It shows cruise tourism supported a total employment of 18,225 full time equivalent positions around Australia, and total wages worth A$1.82 billion to Australian workers.CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said the economic impact from cruise tourism last financial year was the highest ever recorded in Australia.“Cruising returned to Australia much later than other parts of the world, but the ships have been resoundingly welcomed by cruise fans who have been heading back to sea in huge numbers,” Mr Katz said. “The 2022-23 year has brought higher levels of passenger spending, higher levels of cruise line spending, and record levels of economic output around Australia. The result is a resurgent cruise industry worth A$5.63 billion to the Australian economy.”ACA Chief Executive Officer Jill Abel said the level of employment supported by cruising was also at a record high, bringing renewal to dozens of tourism destinations around the country.“Cruise ships visited more Australian destinations than ever in 2022-23, reaching 62 communities around our coast,” Ms Abel said. “Together these destinations welcomed 1,354 ship visits, which generates enormous income for businesses like tourism operators, hotels and restaurants, retailers, transport providers and port operators. The supply chain that supports cruising is extensive, from the travel agents who manage the passengers’ arrangements through to the farmers who provide Australian produce served on board.”The Value of Cruise Tourism economic impact assessment for Australia was prepared by AEC Group on behalf of CLIA and the ACA. Its key findings for 2022-23 show:A total economic output of A$5.63 billion nationally (up 22.1% over 2018-19*), including direct output of A$2.50 billion.Total employment of 18,225 full time equivalent positions nationally (up 9.9%), with total wages income of A$1.82 billion (up 35.7%).A total of 62 Australian ports and destinations visited, welcoming a combined 1,354 ship visits.A total of 3.35 million passenger visit days (down 4.1% due to fewer ships operating in the region during the industry’s recovery phase).Direct passenger expenditure of A$1.49 billion (up 10.6%) and direct crew expenditure of A$52.0 million (up 48.1%).An average passenger spend per day on shore of A$446 per person (up 15.2%). Average crew spend per day on shore A$137 per person (up 7.9%).The largest beneficiary of direct passenger expenditure was the hotel and accommodation sector which received A$457.1 million, or 30.6% of passenger spending. Other beneficiaries included food & beverage (A$300.1 million, 20.1%), shore excursions (A$194.3 million, 13.0%), transport (A$208.8 million, 14.0%), retail shopping (A$163.1 million, 10.9%) and entertainment (A$57.8 million, 3.9%).Direct cruise line expenditure of A$1.17 billion (up 8.3%).Cruise line expenditure included A$227 million (up 1.4%) paid to Australian ports and governments.New South Wales recorded the biggest benefit from cruising with a total economic impact of A$2.75 billion, or 48.8%) of the national total, which supported 8,908 full time equivalent jobs.Queensland is the country’s second-largest cruise economy, with a total economic output of A$1.69 billion, or 29.9% of the national total, which supported 5,546 full time equivalent jobs.Victoria recorded a total economic impact of A$379.5 million, which supported 1,173 full time equivalent jobs, followed by Western Australia (A$333.5 million, 1,055 jobs), South Australia (A$215.4 million, 704 jobs), Tasmania (A$144.1 million, 455 jobs) and the Northern Territory (A$127.3 million, 384 jobs).Download the infographic.*All comparisons are to 2018-19, the previous complete year of cruise operations in Australia. This year’s economic impact assessment adopted a revised methodology to calculate the direct economic output generated by cruise tourism expenditure, aligning with methodologies used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This shows a record level of total economic output, despite being a more conservative method of calculation. Figures for 2018-19 comparisons have been adjusted in line with the new methodology. 19 October, 2023 -
CLIA European Cruise Week: bringing the cruise community together in Genoa in 2024CLIA European Cruise Week: bringing the cruise community together in Genoa in 2024
On 4 of October 2024, at a press conference in Genoa, we revealed plans for CLIA’s European Cruise Week, which will be held in Genoa from 11 to 14 March 2024. CLIA’s Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago, was joined by our partners representing the Liguria Region, the Municipality of Genoa, the Port System Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce.The CLIA European Cruise Week will include both the third edition of the CLIA European Summit and the inaugural CLIA Innovation EXPO, dedicated to the diverse supply chain of the sector.A key aim of the event will be to facilitate direct contact between suppliers and cruise line companies. There will be opportunities for large and small companies to showcase their products and services, from food and beverage suppliers to design companies, from architects to developers of nautical technologies. The event will offer opportunities for business growth.It is an event of great significance for Genoa, Italy and Europe. It will bring together all the major stakeholders of the sector globally: shipowners, maritime authorities, government institutions and regulators, together with the world of suppliers to the cruise industry.Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA Chairman700 guests, including representatives of international and national governments and institutions, cruise leaders from around the world, and hundreds of suppliers and companies in the sector, are expected in March 2024 to make Genoa a leading maritime and cruise hub.“It is an event of great significance for Genoa, Italy and Europe. It will bring together all the major stakeholders of the sector globally: shipowners, maritime authorities, government institutions and regulators, together with the world of suppliers to the cruise industry”, says Mr. Vago.Hosting the event in Genoa reflects the importance of the port city as a leading cruise port for cruises and a hub for shipbuilding and maritime technologies.If you would like to get involved in the Innovation Expo, you can find out more here:https://ow.ly/r3Wi50PoLolCLIA’s Cruise Week – Europe includes:The Annual 2024 CLIA European Summit, 13 MarchThe Innovation Expo, featuring an Innovation Center and “Taste of Cruising” Forum, 12-14 MarchThe Cruise Community Meetings, 13-14 MarchCLIA announces European Cruise Week to be held in Genoa from 11 to 14 March 2024 05 October, 2023 -
CLIA appoints Director of Government Affairs in AustralasiaCLIA appoints Director of Government Affairs in Australasia
September 19, 2023 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has appointed Hugh Cavill as Director of Government Affairs in Australasia, a role that will strengthen the cruise industry’s presence among policymakers and stakeholders across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.Mr Cavill joins CLIA with extensive experience in state government, tourism and transport, having worked in senior policy and strategy advisor roles for several NSW Ministers including former NSW Deputy Premier Paul Toole. He was a past advisor to former NSW tourism ministers Adam Marshall and George Souris, and assisted in the development of the NSW Cruise Development Plan.CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said the appointment would reinforce the cruise industry’s standing among governments and destinations throughout the region.“The international cruise industry is as a major generator of employment and economic opportunities in Australasia, and our engagement with governments will be increasingly important as we work to develop sustainably into the future,” Mr Katz said. “Hugh brings a great deal of skill and experience that will help focus attention on our industry’s economic importance, its tourism contribution, and its leadership in pursuing a net-zero maritime sector globally.”Based in CLIA’s Sydney regional headquarters, Mr Cavill will work closely with cruise line leaders and industry stakeholders to represent the interests of the Australasian cruise sector to governments and the wider business community. He supports CLIA’s international role as the leading voice of the global cruise industry, joining a network of government affairs and advocacy executives in CLIA offices across North and South America, Europe, and Australasia. 19 September, 2023 -
New environmental data report confirms step change in cruise industry uptake of new environmental technologiesNew environmental data report confirms step change in cruise industry uptake of new environmental technologies
2023 data from Cruise Lines International Association shows investment in technologies and alternative fuels that will accelerate the maritime transition towards net zero(WASHINGTON, DC--6 September 2023) - Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise industry, today released its 2023 Global Cruise Industry Environmental Technologies and Practices Report, showing concrete progress by the sector in advancing its environmental and sustainability agenda.The 2023 order book data shows that cruise lines continue investment in new vessels with 44 new ships on order during the next five years, representing an investment of $62 billion since 2019. Of these new ships, 25 will be LNG- powered and seven will be either methanol ready on delivery, or methanol capable, representing an investment in new engine technologies that will accelerate the maritime transition towards a future of low to zero carbon fuels.Examples of progress cited include the number of alternative fuels pilot programs and trials currently in place with cruise ships. In addition, an increasing number of vessels sailing and launching over the next five years will either use alternative fuels or will be able to incorporate zero carbon fuels when they become available. The 2023 report also demonstrates other significant investments cruise lines are making to reduce emissions at berth and at sea, such as shoreside electricity, which allows cruise ships to switch off engines for significant emissions reduction while in port.More cruise lines are diversifying energy solutions by incorporating multi-fuel engines, trialing fuel cell technology, wind (including solid sail) technology, as well as photovoltaic solutions and battery storage for power shaving.Efficiency tracking systems are now in use on 171 CLIA-member ships, representing 60% of the global fleet, with many more systems planned.In addition, cruise lines are pursuing fuel flexibility, investing today in propulsion technologies with conversion capabilities for the future—with 32 pilot projects and collaborative initiatives underway with sustainable fuel producers and engine companies.President, and CEO, CLIA, Kelly Craighead said: “Cruise lines continue to transform the modern fleet to protect the oceans, air and destinations enjoyed by millions of passengers each year. Our data shows a step change in the uptake of new environmental technologies by our cruise line members. Already today cruise lines are building the ships of the future which will run on new, more sustainable engine technologies. The introduction of these new technologies and the many pilot programs and trials in place reveal how the cruise industry is an innovator and early adopter of technologies that are helping us sail to a more sustainable future.”The availability of sustainable marine fuels remains essential to achieving the maritime industry’s decarbonisation goals and underscores the need for governments to support research efforts to accelerate development of these fuels so that they are safe, viable and available for use.Chairman of CLIA Pierfrancesco Vago said: “Achieving our collective sustainability ambitions requires substantial investment from the public and private sector. The cruise industry, as part of the broader maritime sector, is doing its part by building the future of cruise into our ships today. We need governments to support research efforts, as well as provide a clear and stable regulatory landscape, so that fuel suppliers and others can do the critical work needed.”The data shows that CLIA ocean-going cruise lines continue their work to reduce emissions. Highlights of progress include:Shoreside Electricity (SSE) Capability – Plugging into shoreside electricity allows ship engines to be switched off, reducing emissions by up to 98%, depending on the mix of energy sources, while a ship is in port, according to studies conducted by a number of the world’s ports and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.Across the CLIA cruise-line member fleet, 120 ships (46% of the total and a 48% increase in the number of ships with SSE since 2022) are equipped to connect to shoreside electricity, with 86% of CLIA member ships (representing 95% of global passenger capacity) coming online between now and 2028 specified for shoreside electricity system.Currently 32 ports (compared to 29 ports in 2022), representing fewer than 2% of the world’s ports, have at least one cruise berth with plug-in capability.By 2028, more than 210 ships with shoreside power capability are expected, plus additional ships to be retrofitted with the capability, representing a total of 72% of ships and 74% of global passenger capacity.In 2022, CLIA has announced that its ocean cruise line members have made a commitment that all ships calling at ports capable of providing shoreside power will be equipped to either use SSE by 2035 or be able to use alternative low-carbon technologies, as available, to reduce emissions in port.As part of the EU’s Fit for 55 green program, by 2030, major ports in Europe will be required to have shoreside power, which will further accelerate the available port infrastructure investment in that region.Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems – As part of their overarching sustainability focus, cruise lines have committed to not discharging untreated sewage anywhere in the world, during normal operations.Across the CLIA cruise-line member fleet, 202 ships (77% of the total), representing 80% of global passenger capacity (a 12% increase from 2022) are equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems. These systems operate to a higher standard than shoreside treatment plants in many coastal cities.All CLIA-member cruise line new-build ships are specified for advanced wastewater treatment systems— which will bring the total to 242 ships, representing 80% of the fleet and 84% of global capacity.In addition, since 2019, the number of ships with advanced wastewater treatment systems capable of meeting the more stringent standards of the Baltic Sea Special Area has increased 167%. Today, nearly one- third of CLIA member ships have this capability.Renewable fuels and alternative energy sources – Various CLIA member lines are trialing, using, and incorporating into new-build ships the capability to run on renewable fuels, including biofuels and synthetic carbon fuels.Within the CLIA member fleet, four ships sailing today use renewable biofuel as an energy source—and an additional four new-build ships are expected to be configured for renewable biofuels.In addition, 24 ships have biofuel trials and two have synthetic carbon fuels trials.Seven new-build ships are anticipated to run on zero carbon fuels, including five ships envisioned to use green methanol and two envisioned to use green hydrogen.15% of new-build cruise ships entering service in the next five years are anticipated to be equipped with battery storage and/or fuel cells to allow for hybrid power generation.Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Fuel – As the cruise industry anticipates the transition to a future of sustainable, renewable fuels, several cruise ships are utilizing liquified natural gas (LNG). Ships designed with LNG engines and fuel supply systems are able to switch to bio or synthetic LNG in the future, with little or no modifications.The 2023 report found 48% of new-build capacity will be designed with LNG engines and fuel supply systems. These ships are part of a future generation of vessels that will be capable of running on renewable marine fuels once fuel providers are able to make them available at scale.Based on analyses by SeaLNG and others, LNG is currently the fossil fuel available at scale that has the best performance in reducing atmospheric emissions. LNG has virtually zero sulfur emissions and particulate emissions, reduces NOx emissions by approximately 85%, and achieves up to a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.The data tables for this year’s report can be found at this LINK.*Sustainable, renewable marine fuels can include biofuels, synthetic carbon fuels, and other advanced approaches including zero carbon fuels, such as green methanol and green hydrogen. 15 September, 2023 -
Port city Kotor announces plans for sustainable tourism study in cooperation with cruise sectorPort city Kotor announces plans for sustainable tourism study in cooperation with cruise sector
The Destination Assessment will be prepared by the Global Sustainable Tourism CouncilHamburg, 5 September 2023 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the municipality of Kotor and the port of Kotor in Montenegro and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) announced today that they will cooperate to conduct a destination assessment in the historic port city.This announcement comes on the back of a successful season for cruise tourism in Kotor, which is an important cruise port in the Adriatic region.The sustainability Destination Assessment will be conducted by the GSTC, and co-funded by CLIA jointly with the municipality and port. The assessment process, which includes local stakeholder consultation, will help the city to identify priorities with respect to destination management as well as any potential gaps and key risks.Cruise tourism can be a force for good and brings significant social and economic benefits to communities.It is important that we work together and for destinations to manage tourism responsibly so that they remain great places to live and to visit.Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA’s Director General in EuropeThe assessment will encompass all forms of tourism with the aim of setting the foundation for a sustainability action plan for the city.Vladimir Jokić, Mayor of Kotor, said “The agreement between CLIA, the Port of Kotor and Kotor Municipality is going to contribute on one side to the raising of the level of services offered by the Town of Kotor and the Port, and on the other, even more importantly, to enhancing the preservation and management of the UNESCO heritage site,the Town of Kotor itself but also its surrounding area. By acting together, we are going to maintain the balance, preserve global cultural heritage but also be unselfish and make it possible for the multitude of visitors to become acquainted to the natural, cultural and historical wealth of Kotor and Boka Kotorska Bay.I believe that by exchanging good practices and by high quality management efforts we will be able to achieve the desired results to our mutual satisfaction.”Ljiljana Popović Moškov, President of the Board of Directors of the LUKA KOTOR company, pointed out: “The Port of Kotor, as a socially responsible company, is extremely interested in being a partner in this very important project and creating a strategy for the sustainability of Kotor as a tourist destination. Our company wants to raise its services to the highest level of quality that it provides to shipping companies or cruise companies, and this project will help us greatly to do so. Kotor is a city under the protection of UNESCO and I want to express my gratitude to CLIA for recognizing the importance of our destination and including us in what is an extremely important project for us. We expect that this project will be challenging in its creation, but also in its realization, considering that Kotor is a city located in the most beautiful fjord in this part of Europe, has only 22,000 inhabitants, and with close to 500 cruise ship calls annually, bring over half a million passengers to our city”.But no matter the challenges, the most important thing is that with this partnership with CLIA and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, we want the same thing: to make Kotor a sustainable tourist destination in the long term. And I am convinced that we will succeed in that.”Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA’s Director General in Europe, said “We are pleased to partner with the city of Kotor for this new study as part of our commitment to responsible tourism.Cruise tourism can be a force for good and brings significant social and economic benefits to communities.It is important that we work together and for destinations to manage tourism responsibly so that they remain great places to live and to visit.”Dr Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Director for the Mediterranean Region said “As we embark on the groundbreaking journey of the GSTC Destination Assessment of Kotor, it is with great enthusiasm that we recognize the significance of this project, through the partnership between CLIA, the Municipality of Kotor, and the Port of Kotor JSC, underscoring a profound commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices. This strategic alignment resonates with the core principles of the GSTC and echoes the essence of the symbiotic relationship between industry stakeholders, local governance, and cruise infrastructure — a successful model of a holistic approach to destination sustainability. Following the Ministry of Economic Development and Tourism Government of Montenegro’s decision to join as a Member of the GSTC, the Assessment of Kotor not only reinforces the vision set forth by the Montenegro tourism development strategy 2022-2025 but also elevates the status of Kotor as a responsible tourism destination. It serves as a beacon of inspiration for the global tourism industry as a whole.”The city of Kotor is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.Located in the Bay of Kotor, the city is set against a mountainous backdrop with important cultural heritage sites.The agreement was announced during CLIA’s Port and Destination Dialogue in Hamburg.The study will start in the coming weeks and is anticipated to be completed in early 2024 in time for the summer season.Contacts: Julie Green, CLIA at: [email protected] or Philomene Bouchon at [email protected] to EditorsCLIA and its members engage with cruise destinations in a variety of ways. Cruise lines and municipalities have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the Balearic Islands and Dubrovnik to manage specific issues relating to each destination. CLIA and GSTC have also partnered with the Greek cities of Corfu and Heraklion, Greece. CLIA and its members remain in regular dialogue with key destinations to understand the local challenges and cooperate on solutions. Other activities include helping to identify new cruise destinations as well as new and alternative tours to the more well-established destinations. 05 September, 2023 -
River cruise industry unites to drive innovation and sustainabilityRiver cruise industry unites to drive innovation and sustainability
Cruise Lines International Association and IG River Cruise announce Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on innovation and sustainability.Hamburg, Germany, 5 September 2023 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and IG River Cruise announce a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation and lay out a framework that will help river cruising to achieve its sustainability goals.River cruise operators are pursuing efforts to reduce emissions.Cross-sectoral collaboration will help river cruise operators to address the common challenges that must be overcome to achieve this ambition. These challenges include the need for available sustainable marine fuel, enhanced port infrastructure and new technologies, as well as a regulatory environment that fosters investment allowing energy decisions to be taken in due time.Andy Harmer, Managing Director, UK & Ireland, CLIA said: “This is a step forward in bringing together the river cruise community and raising our collective voice. Enhanced cooperation between CLIA and IG River Cruise will bolster our ability to serve as a source of knowledge for Governments and destinations.Collaboration is key to innovation and will benefit the entire European river cruise sector.”Arno Reitsma, President of IG River Cruise and CEO of Scylla AG, said: “The river cruise industry already sought references from ocean Ships, such as aligning ship design components. It is only logical, therefore, that we also share a common path in the area of sustainability.”According to the MOU, joint areas of cooperation will include:Information exchange to ensure the regulatory environment supports sustainable growth of river cruising in Europe.Sharing of environmental data and industry research to articulate the benefits of cruising to the blue economy.Collaboration on research and development and innovation priorities in Europe to help achieve collective sustainability goals.The MOU, announced today at CLIA’s Port & Destination Dialogue in Hamburg, will be followed by a joint CLIA and IG River Cruise meeting to take place on 18 October 2023.Enhanced cooperation between CLIA and IG River Cruise will bolster our ability to serve as a source of knowledge for Governments and destinations.Collaboration is key to innovation and will benefit the entire European river cruise sector.Andy Harmer, Managing Director, UK & Ireland, CLIAThe river cruise market has experienced incredible growth. The opening of the Main-Danube Canal has led to a growth from initially less than 40 river cruise ships in the 1990’s to more than 400 today. The sector is experiencing strong growth with several ships currently on order in European shipyards.Contact:Julie Green, CLIA at [email protected]; Philomene Bouchon, CLIA – [email protected] 05 September, 2023 -
Port city Kotor announces plans for sustainable tourism study in cooperation with cruise sectorPort city Kotor announces plans for sustainable tourism study in cooperation with cruise sector
Port city Kotor announces plans for sustainable tourism study in cooperation with cruise sector The Destination Assessment will be prepared by the Global Sustainable Tourism CouncilHamburg, 5 September 2023 - Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the municipality of Kotor and the port of Kotor in Montenegro and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) announced today that they will cooperate to conduct a destination assessment in the historic port city.This announcement comes on the back of a successful season for cruise tourism in Kotor, which is an important cruise port in the Adriatic region.The sustainability Destination Assessment will be conducted by the GSTC, and co-funded by CLIA jointly with the municipality and port. The assessment process, which includes local stakeholder consultation, will help the city to identify priorities with respect to destination management as well as any potential gaps and key risks.The assessment will encompass all forms of tourism with the aim of setting the foundation for a sustainability action plan for the city.Vladimir Jokić, Mayor of Kotor, said “The agreement between CLIA, the Port of Kotor and Kotor Municipality is going to contribute on one side to the raising of the level of services offered by the Town of Kotor and the Port, and on the other, even more importantly, to enhancing the preservation and management of the UNESCO heritage site,the Town of Kotor itself but also its surrounding area. By acting together, we are going to maintain the balance, preserve global cultural heritage but also be unselfish and make it possible for the multitude of visitors to become acquainted to the natural, cultural and historical wealth of Kotor and Boka Kotorska Bay. I believe that by exchanging good practices and by high quality management efforts we will be able to achieve the desired results to our mutual satisfaction.”Ljiljana Popović Moškov, President of the Board of Directors of the LUKA KOTOR company, pointed out: “The Port of Kotor, as a socially responsible company, is extremely interested in being a partner in this very important project and creating a strategy for the sustainability of Kotor as a tourist destination. Our company wants to raise its services to the highest level of quality that it provides to shipping companies or cruise companies, and this project will help us greatly to do so. Kotor is a city under the protection of UNESCO and I want to express my gratitude to CLIA for recognizing the importance of our destination and including us in what is an extremely important project for us. We expect that this project will be challenging in its creation, but also in its realization, considering that Kotor is a city located in the most beautiful fjord in this part of Europe, has only 22,000 inhabitants, and with close to 500 cruise ship calls annually, bring over half a million passengers to our city”.But no matter the challenges, the most important thing is that with this partnership with CLIA and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, we want the same thing: to make Kotor a sustainable tourist destination in the long term. And I am convinced that we will succeed in that.” Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA’s Director General in Europe, said “We are pleased to partner with the city of Kotor for this new study as part of our commitment to responsible tourism. Cruise tourism can be a force for good and brings significant social and economic benefits to communities. It is important that we work together and for destinations to manage tourism responsibly so that they remain great places to live and to visit.”Dr Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Director for the Mediterranean Region said “As we embark on the groundbreaking journey of the GSTC Destination Assessment of Kotor, it is with great enthusiasm that we recognize the significance of this project, through the partnership between CLIA, the Municipality of Kotor, and the Port of Kotor JSC, underscoring a profound commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices. This strategic alignment resonates with the core principles of the GSTC and echoes the essence of the symbiotic relationship between industry stakeholders, local governance, and cruise infrastructure—a successful model of a holistic approach to destination sustainability. Following the Ministry of Economic Development and Tourism Government of Montenegro's decision to join as a Member of the GSTC, the Assessment of Kotor not only reinforces the vision set forth by the Montenegro tourism development strategy 2022-2025 but also elevates the status of Kotor as a responsible tourism destination. It serves as a beacon of inspiration for the global tourism industry as a whole.". The city of Kotor is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. Located in the Bay of Kotor, the city is set against a mountainous backdrop with important cultural heritage sites. The agreement was announced during CLIA’s Port and Destination Dialogue in Hamburg. The study start in the coming weeks and is anticipated to be completed in early 2024 in time for the summer season. 05 September, 2023 -
CLIA, Cruise Norway and European Cruise Service issue updated Menon reportCLIA, Cruise Norway and European Cruise Service issue updated Menon report
Based on the Menon Economics report “Cruise tourism must be developed as an integrated part of the tourism industry in a sustainable manner”. CLIA, Cruise Norway, and European Cruise Service, are releasing an updated report from Menon Economics. The Menon report was provided earlier this year as a contribution from various stakeholders to the Destination Committee in Norway. The main point is to explain and establish a strategy for a green, sustainable development of cruise tourism as an integrated part of the Norwegian tourism industry.The report highlights the international cruise industry’s commitments to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and support to EU’s strict regulations. New alternative fuel mixes, batteries, and shore power will together support the industry’s ambition to achieve net zero – provided that it is facilitated with good infrastructure and constructive adjustments.“We are very pleased with the work Menon has done, illustrating what the cruise industry can contribute to Norway society. We can do many things ourselves, but we also depend on strengthened cooperation with authorities both locally and nationally. I often say that cruising is the travel sector that has one of the shortest path to zero emissions but, for this to happen, we and the authorities need to communicate on practical solutions available.”Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIACLIA, Cruise Norway, and European Cruise Service will be present at this year’s Arendal Week to present the Cruise Platform and debate the future of sustainable cruising in Norway. Participants look forward to the debate and hope to highlight and propose good solutions, especially considering the local communities that more or less live off cruise tourism and are affected by new regulations in the World Heritage fjords.Event at Arendal Week:https://program.arendalsuka.no/event/user-view/20452 10 August, 2023 -
Save the Date! CLIA’s annual European Summit & inaugural CLIA Innovation Expo, Genoa, 11-14 March 2024Save the Date! CLIA’s annual European Summit & inaugural CLIA Innovation Expo, Genoa, 11-14 March 2024
Cruise industry announces European Summit and inaugural Innovation Expo to take place in Genoa in partnership with local and regional leadershipCLIA’s annual European Summit and inaugural CLIA Innovation Expo will take place 11-14 March 2024Genoa, Italy, 31 July 2023 — Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announces Genoa, Italy will be host to the 2024 European Summit and the new CLIA Innovation Expo.Both events will be part of a week of activities during 11-14 March 2024 focused on innovation, sustainability, and community.In partnership with the Ligurian Region, Municipality of Genoa, the Ports of Genoa, and Chamber of Commerce of Genoa, top cruise line executives, industry innovators, and political leaders will gather and show the industry’s leading role in providing environmental and tourism management solutions.The CLIA Innovation Expo is a new forum for companies currently supplying, or interested in supplying the cruise industry, with a focus on maritime technology, and hospitality.The Expo will showcase solutions and products from across Europe, Italy and in particular Liguria and the surrounding regions.The CLIA Innovation Expo will include an innovation hub where technology developers and suppliers across various categories will introduce and discuss new products and solutions for the industry.A Taste of Cruise Pavilion will include a culinary demonstration area and connect hotel, food, and beverage suppliers with cruise line decision makers in procurement and operations to discuss new offerings.The European Summit will build on the successful Summit in Genoa, 2022 and Paris, 2023 bringing together institutional representatives and stakeholders from across the supply chain to debate key policy issues and developments.Pierfrancesco Vago, Global Chairman, CLIA, and Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises, said: “Sustainability and innovation are the hallmarks of the cruise industry, and this week of activities will demonstrate this unequivocally. The entire cruise industry will send representatives including senior executives and buyers, making this a unique opportunity for anyone who wants to engage with our industry to come and showcase their products, solutions, and services. This is the first time that these events will take place, and Genoa, as a leading European cruise port and a centre for shipbuilding and marine technology development, is a perfect match for this inaugural event.”“The central role of Liguria in the cruise industry,” explains Liguria Region President Giovanni Toti, “is once again recognized by an international initiative. Thanks to CLIA, the new challenges of the blue economy will pass through our region to look at the future of the sector: together we will draw the lines for a more sustainable cruise tourism and how innovation will help to achieve new frontiers of shipping. The choice of Genoa as the capital of the event reaffirms the ability of the Liguria Region, the Chamber of Commerce, the Port System Authority, and the Municipality of Genoa to work together to attract major events related to cultural and conference tourism. A unique opportunity for visibility not only for the city, but also for all the ports of call in Liguria.”This is the first time that these events will take place, and Genoa, as a leading European cruise port and a centre for shipbuilding and marine technology development, is a perfect match for this inaugural eventMr Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA ChairmanMayor Bucci of the Municipality of Genoa declares: “It is a great honour for Genoa.This Summit represents the strategic importance of our city in the Italian and European cruise sector.We have recovered and exceeded the pre-pandemic numbers, thanks to great teamwork.The goal for the coming years is to be able to confirm and surpass the passengers of recent years, demonstrating that our city is increasingly lively and attractive for Italian and foreign visitors.President Signorini of the Ports of Genoa says: “We are honoured to have the opportunity to host in Genoa, Mediterranean’s leading cruise destination, such an important event for the cruise industry. This year, with a forecast of more than 2 million cruise passengers, the Ports of Genoa are poised to consolidate their leadership in the Mediterranean. The port, shipping, shipyards, and cruise sectors represent an enormous valued-added contribution to the Liguria Region and the City of Genoa’s economy.We are firmly convinced that Genoa will be in a strong position to attract the industry’s major players at the forthcoming Cruise European Summit.”Luigi Attanasio, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Genoa: “We are proud that Genoa is hosting for the second time the CLIA European Summit anditsfirst Expo that will include a Taste of Cruise Pavilion and an Innovation Hub that will allow Liguria and the surrounding regions to introduce many new providers of the world’s finest food, beverage and technical innovations for the cruise industry.”Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA, said: “The cruise industry is at the heart of Europe. These events will highlight how Europe is leading the way in cruise shipbuilding and what this means for the European economy. Europe is also setting the pace for sustainability and the cruise industry is using its innovation and expertise to help to deliver on Europe’s climate ambitions.Collaboration is key to innovation, and we look forward to a week of debate, displays, and workshops, showcasing the best of our industry.” The week of activities will gather cruise lines decision-makers, senior representatives of shipyards, classification societies, ports and destinations as well as governmental bodies, experts in maritime technologies, and existing and potential cruise suppliers with a focus on technology and hospitality.The cruise industry is at the heart of Europe. These events will highlight how Europe is leading the way in cruise shipbuilding and what this means for the European economyMarie-Caroline Laurent, Director General Europe, CLIAFor more information about this exciting event and to find out how your company can get involved, please visit www.cruising.org/CruiseWeek. To receive details on showcasing your products and services at the Innovation Expo please email us at [email protected] to Editors: In a show of the collective power of the cruise industry, CLIA will build on the success of the third edition of European Summit with expanded and enhanced content, interactive workshops, numerous networking events and a new CLIA Innovation Expo, providing an opportunity to showcase critical and new brands and products across hospitality, food and beverage, and marine technical services.The Expo will bring together the community to collaborate on innovation to help the industry achieve growth and provide new solutions, products, and services. During this week, our members will foster engagement, share intelligence, and connect with buyers, media, and suppliers from across Europe and around the globe.For more information, please contact: [email protected] 31 July, 2023